Grandpa’s Beef Stew

“Grandpa’s Beef Stew” is a heartfelt journey through the memories and sacrifices of a family shaped by Taiwan’s turbulent history. The story unfolds through the eyes of a young protagonist, reminiscing about summers spent with their revered grandfather, a veteran from the Sino-Japanese War and Chinese Civil War. As the protagonist reflects on their grandfather’s selfless acts and the hardships endured to provide a better life, the aroma of his signature Beef Stew serves as a poignant reminder of the unspoken sacrifices of previous generations.

However, the tranquility is shattered when the family learns of Grandpa’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, casting a shadow over their cherished memories. As Grandpa’s memories begin to fade and he relives haunting flashbacks of wartime trauma, the protagonist is consumed by guilt for not fully appreciating his legacy while he was still present. Through this emotional journey, “Grandpa’s Beef Stew” confronts the generational gap between those who have known peace and prosperity and those who have borne the scars of conflict, urging viewers to cherish the sacrifices of their forebears.

In the wake of Grandpa’s passing, the protagonist attempts to recreate his Beef Stew, longing to capture a taste of the past. Yet, in this bittersweet endeavor, they come to understand that some things – like the depth of sacrifice and the richness of memory – can never be replicated. As the film concludes, audiences are left with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of love that transcends time and generations.

Film Content Advisory: Gore, War

Credits
Writer: HaiTao Wu
Producer: HaiTao Wu
Executive Producer: HaiTao Wu
Director of Photography: Nicholas Lee
Editor: HaiTao Wu
Production Designer: HaiLi Wu
Composer: Don Liu
Sound Designer: Ryan Bloes, Nicholas Guldner
Music: Don Liu

Plays in

An Emotion

Moving drawings, moving people. Intimacy between intimate moments. Over time and underneath. Animated films exploring the real and surreal.